The British government plans to send a ten-second emergency alert to approximately 87 million mobile devices this year as part of a second test of its Emergency Alert System (EAS).

This alert will vibrate and emit a loud siren for up to ten seconds, ensuring widespread notification.

The UK’s emergency alert system is designed to notify the public of life-threatening emergencies, similar to systems in countries like the US and Canada.

The upcoming nationwide test, which has not yet been scheduled, follows recommendations from the Covid inquiry aimed at enhancing crisis preparedness.

Since its introduction in 2023, the EAS has been used four times, including a recent alert on January 6, 2025, to warn of potential flooding.

Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Pat McFadden emphasized the importance of regular testing to keep the public informed about major risks.

In conjunction with the alert test, a multi-day pandemic preparedness exercise will involve senior government officials and emergency services, marking the first such exercise in nearly a decade.

Baroness Hallett, chair of the UK Covid-19 inquiry, has called for regular preparedness exercises every three years to address the country's inadequate pandemic readiness.

Concerns have been raised regarding the alert system's potential impact on domestic abuse victims, as the alert's sound could compromise their safety.

The alert message will clarify that it is a test and inform users that no action is required, directing them to visit the government website for further information.

Critics, including Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice, have labeled the tests as excessive government control, while others have criticized the alerts as intrusive.

Shadow Cabinet Office Minister Richard Holden stressed the need for flexibility in pandemic exercises to adapt to future risks that may differ from past challenges.